Rebellious France
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What is the role of artists in French social movements of the 20th and 21st centuries? Are they simply witnesses or are they active players in historical movements? Is it possible for an artist taking part in tumultuous events to keep the necessary distance to reflect on and judge them? Are those pieces of art only addressed at supporters of the cause? How does art express themes that drive the public debate? These questions will lead the path of this course from “Le Front Populaire” in 1936 to the very recent events of “Nuit Debout” (2016) via “Mai 68”. In addition to being decisive periods in the history of social movements in France, these three movements used culture in unique ways to promote their causes. Taking the role of culture in social movements as its inspiration, this course will access history through literary, cinematographic and cultural analysis.
« Le Front Populaire » (1936) through cinema and photography
« Mai 68 » through songs, posters and flyers
« Nuit Debout » (2016) through texts
